Citrulline Malate

Citrulline malate combines the amino acid L-citrulline with malic acid. It is one of the most common and evidence-supported ingredients in pre-workout supplements. Unlike arginine, which is heavily metabolized in the gut and liver, citrulline raises blood arginine levels more reliably, making it a better route for supporting nitric oxide production.

Citrulline is converted to arginine in the kidneys, increasing arginine availability for nitric oxide synthase. Nitric oxide relaxes blood vessels and supports blood flow during exercise. Malate may also support energy metabolism through the citric acid cycle, though the main performance value comes from citrulline-driven nitric oxide support.

6–8 g citrulline malate pre-workout. Most performance studies use 6–8 grams of citrulline malate taken 30–60 minutes before training. If using pure L-citrulline, the typical dose is 3–6 grams. Products should disclose the citrulline-to-malate ratio, commonly 2:1.

Citrulline Malate 2:1: Most common clinically relevant performance format; provides more citrulline per gram than 1:1 | Pure L-Citrulline: Efficient way to dose active citrulline without malate weight | Citrulline Malate 1:1: Contains less active citrulline per gram; dose must be adjusted upward | Undisclosed citrulline blend: Cannot determine active citrulline yield or clinical relevance

Generally safe and well tolerated. May lower blood pressure slightly due to nitric oxide effects. Use caution with nitrates, PDE-5 inhibitors, or blood pressure medications. Some users experience mild GI discomfort at high doses. This information is educational and is not medical advice.

SuppsBuddy calculates active citrulline yield from the listed form and ratio. Products using 1–2 grams in pre-workout blends receive underdosing flags because clinically supported performance doses are much higher.